Standardized Tests

The Terra Nova is a standardized achievement
test designed to provide achievement scores that are valid for most types of
educational decision-making. Areas that are assessed are Reading/Language Arts,
Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Primarily, the inferences from the
test results include measurement of achievement of individual students relative
to a current nationwide normative group and relative program effectiveness
based on the results of groups of students. Progress can be tracked over years
and grades. The results are used to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a
student's achievement in each content area, to plan for further instruction, to
plan for curriculum development, and to report progress to parents. The purpose
is to assess academic achievement for most types of educational
decision-making. (e.g., on program effectiveness, class grouping, needs
assessment, and placement in special programs).